Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons

Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons is a 2018 Nigerian film, a perfect blend of drama, action and comedy. The star-studded movie brings together talented actors like Ayo ‘AY’ Makun, Ramsey Nouah, Jim Iyke, Falz, Iretiola Doyle, Jide Kosoko, Ireti Doyle, Damilola Adegbite, Lilian Afegbai, Abbey Chile Abuede and Roseline Muerer among others.

The storyline is structured around four young men who are more than what meets the eye. They call themselves the “Merry Men,” dashing Lagos elite known for their charm, intellect, business savvy, fashion-forward style and for their unsuspecting double lives as cat burglars. Their sophisticated allure makes them the perfect embodiment of the indigenous phrase "Yoruba demons". Each of the four ‘Merry Men’ has a key trait, translating to their respective roles and identities, their characters are both charming and intriguing.

Remi Martins, played by charismatic Nigerian comedian, AY is the leader of the pack. Known for his business acumens, his ability to unabashedly woo any woman he desires becomes a central focus of the story. Ramsey Nouah is Amaju Abioritsegbemi, a dashing fashionista, whose flamboyance and style help cover his extracurricular activities.

The film is laden with interesting elements, one of which is the portrayal of women in positions of power. Primarily starring actress, Iretiola Doyle, who plays the character, Dame Maduka - an ambitious and calculative corrupt politician who is aiming to become Nigeria's next female President. Her character shows the depth and creativity brought into the making of the movie.

The amusing character Pastor Ayo, played by Falz, brings a comedic relief to the movie. His character’s background as a reformed internet scammer who has a religious conversion without completely losing his comical 'Yahoo Boy' ways adds an entertaining dynamic to the story. Then there's Naz Okigbo, played by Jim Iyke, a tech entrepreneur with a bad boy reputation, a captivating charm the audience can rarely resist.

The captivating visuals and scenery of the luxurious side of Lagos serve as a backdrop to the thrilling plot. It is a city of contrast, where the glitz and glamour of the wealthy exist side by side with the grit and grime of the poor. The richness of the locations and settings supplements the film's storyline, enhancing its visual appeal.

Moreover, the film doesn’t shy away from addressing significant social issues - political corruption, wealth disparity and women’s rights, marinated with a bit of romance, and a whole lot of humor. This film is a reflection of the society we live in, albeit with a touch of flamboyance and humor.

Director Toka Mcbaror together with screenwriter, Anthony Joseph, effectively convey a story that’s culturally anchored and highly entertaining. His creative and distinct directorial methods are evident throughout the movie. The producers of the film, Darlington Abuda and Ayo ‘AY’ Makun, play their part in executing such an exquisite project providing the audience with a fresh take on the Nigerian cinema.

One of the key aspects of this movie is its careful balance of comedy, drama and action. The moments of laughter interspersed with the action-packed scenes provide a good emotional flow. This balance ensures the audience goes through a range of emotions and remains engaged throughout its run time.

The costume and wardrobe selection deserve a special mention. The exquisite African attires, bespoke suits, trendy casuals, and luxury automobiles add a classy edge to the movie. The stylish outfits bring out the 'Yoruba Demon' theme clearly and enhance the actors' performance, making them more believable and appealing.

Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons can be best described as a movie that breaks from the norm of traditional Nollywood films. It combines humor, action and a splash of romance set in a background rich in Nigerian culture and societal scenarios. It's a movie that showcases the versatility and creative range in the Nigerian film industry. From deep character studies to relatable social issues, it provides sharp social commentary cloaked in lighthearted humor and action—making it a must-see for both local and international audiences.